Purpose as Priority Part 2

This is a continuing series of posts based on writings of Richard Leider and David Shapiro….about Purpose as Priority:

Part 2:

One of the most common ways to manage life's ups and downs is resolving to do something about our physical form.  We decide to make changes to improve our lives.  And as often as not, that involves getting on the path of fitness and developing a regular routine.  We tell our friends about it.  We hire personal trainers.  We actually make changes.  They work. We feel happy with ourselves.  Life is better.

But frequently, we backslide.  Why? Is it laziness? A lack of willpower? Overconfidence? Perhaps it's all of these and more.  Clearly, backsliding is a universal dilemma.  Our bodies, brains, and behaviors have a built- tendency to return to their comfort zones when challenged.

So, how do we mitigate against such tendencies and make the positive changes we hope to secure for ourselves in the second half of life and beyond stick?  The "stickiness" question is essential to depp renewal, especially at midlife and beyond.  No doubt this is the reason that the connections among mind, body, and spirit, so critical to wholeness, have garnered attention from those of us interested in positive aging.

The themes of wholeheartedness and authenticity describe change that sticks.  Think of wholeheartedness in terms of one's willingness to genuinely commit to a project or goal, putting one's whole self into it.  Authenticity is the related notion that when we act wholeheartedly, we do so through an authentic expression of who we really are, not who we think we ought to be or the person we wish we were.  Thus, an authentic and wholehearted approach to change reduces the likelihood that we will backslide because any such backsliding is simply a return to who we really are.

The simple declaration "I'm going to get in shape" is often a signal that a wholeness revolution has begun.  Although it may seem like a sudden decision, it typically isn't.  More often, it is the result of a process that has been churning inside for months or even years.  Once again it is our bodily wisdom telling us what we need.

Stay tuned for Part 3 later this week!

Please comment!  All are welcome!!!